As expected with any compilation material, there's the good, the bad and the ugly. Factor in that this is a live DVD - so we see how great/horrible bands really are - and go from there. Boasting a variety of garage and alt-rock from 30-plus bands, the likes of Jay Reatard, Hank IV, Quintron and Miss Pussycat and more ensure this feature is well-rounded, if not entirely appreciated. It's that age-old quality versus quantity debate. Most notable is thrash power trio Evil Army, an outstanding band in their own right who are completely out of place on this particular collection of indie rock cretins. Overall, a CD with different tunes adds value other than the "bonus" material, which is really just more bands playing. As for the footage, despite ranging in locale from backyards and outdoor stages to indoor concert halls, virtually all of it is respectable, bordering on great. Even the sound is above what would be expected from something of this nature, making GonerFest 4 a fun yet unsurprising experience.
(Goner)Various
GonerFest 4
BY Keith CarmanPublished Feb 2, 2010